14 Ways to Love the Ocean

Still searching for your perfect valentine? We’ve got your covered. Here are a few ways to show the ocean some love this Valentine’s Day:

Published February 12, 2015

Start at home. What you do in your home and your yard has downstream effects on our rivers, bays and oceans. Plant native trees and shrubs, fertilize less (or not at all) this spring and find natural alternatives for herbicides and pesticides.

Install rain barrels, a rain garden, or simply disconnect your downspouts. Redirecting the stormwater that falls on your roof helps clean it before it enters the nearest stream.

Share with your neighborhood. Make sure all of your neighborhood storm drains are labeled. Make your neighbors aware that everything that is dumped into storm drains will find it’s way to the closest water body.

Drive Less. As distant as it seems, our greenhouse gas emissions on land are directly linked to ocean acidification. If we decrease the concentration of these gases in our atmosphere, we can help the oceans maintain a healthy balance.

Support local farmers. Locally grown food options cut down on transportation in the supply chain and are fresher alternatives.

Support local fishermen. Local seafood options are fresher and your choice helps support cleaner local waterways.

Ditch the Plastic. Plastic pollution is one of the most visible threats facing our oceans. Find ways to reduce the amount of disposable plastics you use in your daily routines.

…Including microplastics. Microplastics are the tiny plastic particles that have shown up in popular personal care products recently. These plastics are washed immediately down the drain and into our nearby rivers and streams after use.

Learn to share. We share the ocean with an amazing array of plants and animals. Slow down when boating near marine mammals and sea turtles, make sure you retrieve any lost fishing line and watch animals from a distance to ensure their safety and yours.

Become a citizen scientist. There are many researchers out there that need your help in collecting important scientific data. You can help report marine debris, identify marine species and track invasive species. For a great starter list of smart phone apps click here.

Visit or support a National Marine Sanctuary. Similar to National Parks on land, these sanctuaries are areas set aside to help protect vital ocean resources.

Play in/on it. It is hard to escape the respect and awe you will feel once you’ve immersed yourself in it.

Share it with your family. Time spent with your family at the beach becomes cherished memories and heightens our appreciation of both.

How are you celebrating your love of nature this Valentine's Day? Share your ideas with us in the comments section!